Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 1 November 2026
Reading Duolingo minimums
From Reading's English language requirements page, table of requirements for all undergraduate courses, including Henley Business School.
| Level or programme | Duolingo minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate, direct entry | 125 | No sub score less than 100 |
| With 6-week Online Pre-sessional English | 120 | No sub score less than 100 |
| With 10-week Online Pre-sessional English | 115 | No sub score less than 90 |
Reading's Duolingo rules
Reading's acceptable English language tests page lists the Duolingo English Test among the only tests that can be used to meet a condition of offer, which is normally set in IELTS terms. For entry to the online Pre-sessional English programme, a Duolingo result must be no more than two years old by your intended course start date.
Some courses ask for more: Speech and Language Therapy needs IELTS 8.0 with no less than 7.5 in each component, and Pharmacy and Nutrition need 6.5 with 6.0, or equivalent.
For comparison, the same requirements page sets IELTS Academic at 6.5 with no lower than 5.5 in each component for undergraduates.
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If your Duolingo score is short
Reading asks you to tell it your most recent IELTS or equivalent score when you apply, and it will advise you on the best route to starting a degree, including its pre-sessional English programme.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Reading programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
Does the University of Reading accept Duolingo?+
Yes. It is on Reading's list of tests acceptable to meet an offer condition.
What Duolingo score does Reading need?+
125 with no sub score below 100 for undergraduate direct entry.
Can I go to Reading with Duolingo 115?+
Yes, with no sub score below 90 plus a 10-week Online Pre-sessional English course.
What is Reading's IELTS equivalent?+
IELTS 6.5 with no lower than 5.5 in each component for undergraduates.
Keep reading
Related
- University of Reading IELTS requirement
- University of Surrey Duolingo requirement
- Duolingo vs IELTS for universities
- IELTS for the UK: scores by university and visa
- All 4750 guides
Guide updated on 1 November 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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